DSW Showcase Student Presentation

Jaque Barr

CAPTAIN US ARMY, DSW Candidate, LCSW

The Critical Need for Formalized Military, Cultural Competency Training for Social Workers to Bridge Gaps in Effective Support for Military-Affiliated Populations.

Concentration - Military Behavioral Health

Abstract

This presentation delves into innovative strategies for adapting social work practices to better align with the realities of military life and effectively support military-affiliated individuals. Central to this research is implementing cultural competency training for social work professionals. This training equips practitioners with essential skills to understand and address the unique challenges military community members face. By integrating military life familiarization, evidence-based interventions, and principles of social justice, social workers can effectively bridge significant gaps in care and advocacy. The presentation offers actionable insights aimed at enhancing social work education and practice. It underscores the importance of fostering allyship and advocacy to serve military populations better while promoting holistic outcomes that support mental health, reintegration, and overall well-being. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the behavioral health needs of service members, their families, and veterans, the limitations of current approaches, and the significance of culturally competent care. This session seeks to empower social work professionals to effect meaningful change, cultivating a more inclusive and effective support system for those who serve.

Biography

Jaque Barr, a Captain in the United States Army Reserve with 10 years of service, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and doctoral candidate at the University of Kentucky. He specializes in supporting military populations, addressing issues such as veteran homelessness, behavioral health, trauma-informed care, and the rehabilitation of veterans with mental health and substance use challenges.

Currently pursuing a Doctor of Social Work with a concentration in Military Behavioral Health (expected May 2025), Jaque’s capstone project, “ The Critical Need for Formalized Military, Cultural Competency Training for Social Workers to Bridge Gaps in Effective Support for Military-Affiliated Populations" focuses on training programs for the social work profession to enhance culturally competent care for service members, veterans, and their families.

Jaque’s research interests include trauma theory, moral injury, resilience, social work education, and social justice in military behavioral health. His dedication to advancing care systems and outcomes for military-affiliated populations has earned him several honors, including the Army Commendation Medal and Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Mobilization Device.

Passionate about bridging the gap between research and practice, Jaque aims to develop innovative strategies that empower social workers to support better service members in active duty, transition, or civilian life.